Job Etiquette: Remembering Things Past

As a child, I have fond memories of summer vacation, not only because it was a break from school but in my case, a family trip to the beaches of the beautiful state of Maine. It was time for my parents to have a break from their daily routines and fun for the family to have time together. I can’t remember them checking their cell phones or e-mail… oh, WAIT a minute, they didn’t have those things yet!! My father owned a retail business and my mother was a nurse, both held responsible jobs, yet for that special time in August, they seemed to be free and clear of the working world.

Often when interviewing, applicants ask about the time off policies. Hopefully, it is not the very first question of the interview. Most companies have  some sort of Time Off Policy. Also, many companies encourage employees to use their time off to have a break from their everyday responsibilities. But there are changes now to idea of vacation time.

What happened to vacation of the past?

• Now, at that beautiful beach in Maine there are cell phones, iPads and computers so we can be in touch.
• Instead of people watching, most eyes are downcast reading tweet, e-mail or work related questions that may appear.
• Now, many people take “working vacations”.
• Long weekends sometimes take the place of a longer time period.
• First day back can be a nightmare if you don’t check e-mails during the time off.
• Sometimes people check e-mail after hours to keep up.
• Some people are able to schedule time off with no interruptions.
• Some put off vacations until it is year-end.
• Many people have carry over times which builds up to even more untaken time off.
• Many people are insecure (in this economy) of  being away from the office.

How can you schedule uninterrupted time?

• Schedule your time and only tell the people with an urgent need to know about your contact information.
• Resist the urge to check your e-mail in a restaurant, on the beach or on your living room couch.
• Have a plan in place with people to cover for you when appropriate.
• Trust those who will stand in for you while you are out.
• If there is no one to stand in, try to complete loose ends.
• Set electronic out of office messages on your computer, voice mail and other devices.
• Leave your computer at work.
• Make plans for the time you are off to keep you interested.
• Vacation time is a benefit for you to have some distraction from work.
• Relaxation is good for you.
• Find a remote destination and enjoy!

If you know people who successfully take vacations, ask them for the secret to their success. If your company or organization has times during the year that are particularly busy, avoid that time and schedule during a less busy time.  Some companies and organizations do not work that way; thus, you need to make sure you will have back up or other arrangements when you leave. Have confidence in your self and understand that your employer will understand when you need a break. When you continue to push the vacation time off in some organizations you will lose it at year-end. Some companies let you carry over a portion of it into the next year. My point is to use it whether it be several long weekends or a full week or more (if you have the time), everybody needs and deserves a break.

TRUE CONFESSION: Many years ago at the first company I worked for, I made sure to give my colleagues plenty of advance notice of my one week vacation. After that , the majority of employees all seemed to have something that became urgent and by the time my vacation was to start I got sick. So my vacation became sick time! The point is don’t get worn down trying to finish everything you can prior to your time off. Finish what is most important and trust that operations will continue to run while you are away. And trust that when you get back there will be plenty to do; people, messages, e-mails and paperwork will be there to greet you back from your well deserved vacation.

Please share your success stories below.

Talk soon.

Job Etiquette: On the Edge

The recent disappointing employment numbers along with continued staff reductions, acquisitions and mergers resulting in layoffs or site closings, continue to leave thousands of people looking for jobs.  Whether you are a new grad, a seasoned professional or high school student, the opportunities remain few and some are temporary contracts. What surprises me in this current market are job candidates who interview with an edgy manner. They come in and dictate their expectations and don’t always listen as well as they should when an offer may be imminent.

Let me explain to you what I have heard recently during interviews (face to face or by telephone) Most are in response to the question “Do you have any questions”?

• The amount of vacation time and when it starts.
• In my last job (whenever it was) I worked from home and that is my preference.
• I don’t want to commute.
• I think the job title should be different.
• The responsibilities of the job do not seem to be in line with your salary range.
• I would like a week or two before I start this job (from those who are currently unemployed)
• Money isn’t important to me.
• At my former company, I had more paid holidays/sick time/vacation days; I want this company to match that amount.

Why do people want to set limitations for themselves? Why do they challenge the employer?  Usually on an interview, you are trying to present your best self. When employers are challenged early in the game, they will most likely predict issues could arise if this person is an employee. What can we expect?  Why don’t applicants think before they speak?

HINT: During an interview, don’t refer to what you had at your former company, because you are not there anymore. Focus on the job offer, title and understand the opportunities it will provide for you professionally, financially and on your resume as a current position.

Have you as an employer ever heard these comments before or similar ones?  Have you as a job seeker made these comments and lost an opportunity. Please comment below or ask me questions.   I would be glad to help you.